Science, engineering are key to Boise State University’s future, Kustra says

Those programs could transform BSU into research school, he says

Boise State University’s science and engineering programs could lead the college’s transformation to a research school while helping improve Idaho’s economy, BSU President Bob Kustra said Wednesday.

BSU must closely link its education in both fields with the economic base of Boise and the state, he said. "Boise State must harness its intellectual energy and its financial resources to prepare a scientific and technically creative work force," he told faculty and staff at his third State of the University address.

If BSU can focus its growing research capability on producing those highly skilled graduates, "a persuasive argument can be made for a strong science and engineering emphasis that could lead to Boise State developing significant expertise and reputation across the West," Kustra said.

If he is right, then the entire university could share in BSU’s reputation for research and innovation. "I am confident every one of our colleges will play a key role in building Idaho’s metropolitan research university," he said.

Bill Roberts
The Idaho Statesman

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